Cynthia Kosarek McLaren

Cynthia Kosarek McLaren passed away surrounded by loving family on January 7, 2026, in Austin, Texas. She lived a life full of joy, adventure, and gratitude while embodying a true Texas cowgirl spirit.

Cindy was born in Corpus Christi, Texas to Dallars and Edwin Kosarek. She grew up surfing the Gulf Coast, playing softball, dancing to country music, attending Czech family reunions and deepening her devotion to the Catholic faith. In childhood she attended St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic School and Incarnate Word Academy, which inspired her lifelong connection to the Church and adoration of The Blessed Mother Mary. Cynthia lived her faith – she always spread kindness, helped to feed the needy, comforted the sick and was an active member in the church community as a Eucharistic Minister for more than 30 years.

Cynthia was an adventurous spirit. She was a keeper of bees and a shooter of dominoes. She was a proud Texan and a proud graduate of the University of Texas. Cindy was a fisherwoman, a hunter, a surfer, a waterskier, a gardener, a camper, and an explorer. She won a deep-sea fishing tournament by hooking the largest marlin. She walked the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain and slept on a bench at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. She beat a Marine gun instructor in target shooting at age 60 and asked for a whitewater rafting guide recommendation at age 70. A woman truly full of life.

Cynthia was a joy to her family and loved spending time together. She was a cherished sister, adored wife, unequaled mother and enthusiastic grandmother. Cynthia is survived by her husband of 45 years; Robert D McLaren II and two children; Ryan Kosarek McLaren and Chadwick Kosarek McLaren; Siblings Katherine Kosarek, Cheryl Kosarek, Michael Kosarek; Grandchildren Logan Carter McLaren and Olivia Wynn McLaren; and numerous beloved in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Cindy will be remembered for having the “bluest eyes in Texas”, her infectious laughter and smile, an incredibly strong spirit, and an immense gratitude for life. Her kitchen was a constant source of endless love, laughter, and amazing food. She will be dearly missed.

We are immensely grateful for the amazing team who helped care for Cynthia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to: Texas ALS Association at als.org/support/states/Texas